Asylum Psychological Evaluations

Objective, trauma-informed psychological evaluations for asylum-related immigration matters.

Evaluations assess the psychological impact of persecution, violence, displacement, trauma-related symptoms, and fear of return using evidence-based clinical methods.

Illustration of a woman's silhouette, a globe, a dove carrying an olive branch, a shield with a family icon, and scales of justice, symbolizing peace, justice, and protection.

20+ years of clinical assessment experience
Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Trauma-informed evaluation | 1–2 week turnaround

Clinical Assessment for Asylum Proceedings

Asylum psychological evaluations document the psychological impact of persecution, violence, displacement, forced migration, and trauma.

These evaluations provide objective clinical findings regarding trauma-related symptoms, emotional distress, functional impairment, fear of return, and the psychological consequences of the reported experiences.

Evidence-Based Evaluation Grounded in Clinical Expertise

Each evaluation integrates trauma-informed interviewing, psychological assessment, records review, and evidence-based methods when clinically appropriate.

The resulting report presents clinical findings in clear, organized language designed to help attorneys and adjudicators understand the psychological impact of persecution, displacement, and forced migration.

What May Be Assessed

Asylum evaluations may examine the psychological effects of persecution, violence, displacement, detention, threats, loss, family separation, forced migration, and other traumatic experiences relevant to the asylum claim.

Clinical findings may include trauma-related symptoms, PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, fear responses, hypervigilance, sleep disturbance, grief, emotional distress, impaired functioning, and fear of return.

Areas Commonly Assessed

  • History of persecution or targeted harm

  • Trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms

  • Violence, displacement, and forced migration

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Fear and hypervigilance

  • Sleep disturbance and emotional distress

  • Grief and loss

  • Daily functioning and quality of life

  • Family and social support systems

How the Evaluation Process Works

Asylum evaluations follow a structured clinical process designed to document the psychological impact of persecution, violence, displacement, and trauma in a clear, evidence-based manner.

01. Consultation & Intake
Initial discussion of referral needs, case history, timelines, and available documentation.

02. Clinical Interview
A comprehensive, trauma-informed interview exploring trauma history, persecution experiences, psychological symptoms, functioning, and case-specific concerns.

03. Assessment & Records Review
Supporting records are reviewed, and psychological measures may be used when clinically appropriate.

04. Written Report
A clear, professionally organized report summarizing clinical findings, diagnostic impressions when applicable, functional impact, and psychological factors relevant to the asylum claim.

Most evaluations are completed in one clinical interview. Written reports are typically completed within 1–2 weeks after the interview and receipt of relevant documents.

Why Attorneys Choose Dr. DiNardo

Objective, evidence-based evaluations informed by trauma-sensitive interviewing, culturally responsive assessment, and over 20 years of clinical assessment experience.

Reports are clearly organized, professionally written, and designed to help attorneys and adjudicators understand the psychological and functional issues relevant to each case.

Key points:

  • Objective clinical findings

  • Trauma-informed assessment

  • Evidence-based methodology

  • Attorney-focused reports

  • Responsive communication

  • 1–2 week turnaround

Background

Clinical Expertise Grounded in Assessment Experience

Dr. Anthony D. DiNardo III, Psy.D is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in psychological assessment, diagnostic interviewing, and clinical documentation. His advanced clinical training includes UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. His current practice focuses on immigration-related psychological evaluations and clear, evidence-based reporting for legal proceedings.

Bullets:

  • Licensed Clinical Psychologist

  • UCLA and Harbor-UCLA trained

Asylum Evaluation FAQs

Common questions about asylum psychological evaluations and the assessment process.

Ready to proceed with evaluation?

Contact the office to schedule an immigration psychological evaluation or discuss your case with Dr. DiNardo.